Red Deer Arts Council presents Coal in Alberta: A journey to obsolescence

Aug 18, 2026 | 6:00 AM

The Red Deer Arts Council is pleased to present Coal in Alberta: A journey to obsolescence on display at the Kiwanis Gallery from Aug. 18-Oct. 6, 2026.

Artist Statement: “Coal in Alberta: A Journey to Obsolescence” attempts to illustrate the past history of the coal industry in Alberta. Only traditional black and white film methods were used. The use of old techniques and chemistry stand in perfect harmony with the history of coal. The artists demonstrate the hardship and the costs of the industry in both human and environmental terms. Many lives were shortened by hardship, health issues and accidents and this is demonstrated in their interpretation of the memorials.

The Monochrome Guild’s belief is that a return to coal mining in Alberta is destined to repeat the past and create the same issues and impacts, for what many deem to be, diminishing returns. It is their hope that the exhibition will stimulate some meaningful reflection and consideration on this important matter.

Biography:

The Monochrome Guild is an Edmonton-based group of traditional fine art photographers. The group was founded in 2002 by Rob Pohl and other like-minded photographers, who enjoy working with cameras that still require film. The initial concept for the group came about as a result of a frustration with the direction that photography was taking. The group embraces traditional monochrome fine art photography as a form of expression and strives to promote it, keeping it alive and well in an increasingly digital world.